Castle of Santa Severina – the Norman fortress on the acropolis

History and description

The Castle of Santa Severina, also known as Carafa Castle or Norman‑Swabian Castle, dominates the village of the same name in the province of Crotone, perched on a high cliff overlooking the valley of the Neto River. Its origins date back to the Byzantine era, but its construction was consolidated with the arrival of the Normans, particularly under Robert Guiscard around the 11th century, who built much of the central structure, including a square keep and cylindrical corner towers.

Over the centuries, various expansions and modifications were made. Under the Carafa, Ruffo, Sculco, and other feudal families, the fortress received interior embellishments such as decorations, frescoes, and vaulted ceilings, as well as improvements for comfort and defensive adaptation. Today, it extends over an area of about 10,000 square meters and architecturally features a central square keep with four cylindrical corner towers, each connected by curtain walls.

During restoration works in the 1990s, very ancient archaeological remains were uncovered, including Greek materials, remains of the Byzantine church, the necropolis, walls, a cistern, and parts of the original structure. Inside the castle today are the Archaeological Museum of Santa Severina, the Documentation and Study Center for Calabrian Castles and Fortifications, as well as spaces for art exhibitions, crafts, and concerts.

Curiosities

One of the most famous episodes is the siege of the castle by Andrea Carafa in 1506. It is said that the assault succeeded thanks to an internal “traitor,” the Mastrogiurato, who allowed entry into the fortress through a hidden passage.

Access

The castle is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with morning and afternoon hours, and can be visited at the cost of €5, with free and reduced entry available in specific cases.

How to reach it

The entrance to the castle is through the main gate located in Piazza Campo, the heart of the village. It can be reached by car via provincial roads from Crotone or other towns in Calabria, and once in the village, by walking through the traditional streets.

The Castle of Santa Severina is therefore a monument that embodies historical stratifications and represents not only a well‑preserved military fortress but also a vibrant cultural center at the heart of Crotone.

Photo credits: Samuele1607 (Wikipedia) - Licensed by CC 4.0